: Might consider using 1/8" or 3/16" chord (rope) for your soft
: pad-eyes.

Funny you should mention that. That is what I am going to do for the deck rigging. I have not seen that done but I thought about it a couple weeks ago and have come the same conclusions you did.

But I still need a good way to tie down nylon straps for the hatches. I have decided to go with the strap and buckle hold downs and I am just looking for a good idea there. Like you soft pad-eye seems like a lot of work but it looks better than a screw and washer!